Rob Carter Steps Down From Indiana Department Of Corrections

By Whitney Downard, Indiana Capital Chronicle

September 28, 2022

Rob Carter will leave his role as the commissioner of the Indiana Department of Corrections (IDOC) after almost six years in leadership, with Christina Reagle succeeding him in the position.

Carter spearheaded partnerships to cultivate education, job skills and training opportunities for incarcerated Hoosiers. With legislators, he implemented a new credit time system that incentivizes people to focus on risk-reduction treatment and rehabilitation resources.

A release said Carter oversaw the closure of multiple facilities, but didn’t specify which ones, to reallocate funding to other programs and improve staff compensation.

“It has been an honor to implement many of Gov. Holcomb’s initiatives, including focusing on increasing vocational training for incarcerated individuals and reducing recidivism to an all-time low,” Carter said in a statement. “I leave behind an agency and leaders poised to continue focusing on providing a safe environment that fosters training and preparation for life after incarceration.”

Carter’s last day will be Oct. 14, after which he will assume a role with Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Public Affairs Strategies Group.

“Since the start of my administration, Commissioner Carter has brought a wealth of management, public safety and security experience to the Indiana Department of Correction, helping the agency navigate the challenges we have faced, especially in recent years,” Gov. Eric Holcomb said in a statement. “Day in and day out, Rob has remained focused on building a network of leaders statewide for IDOC facilities and implementing the best training programs for incarcerated individuals, which will have a ripple effect across the state in the years to come. I thank him for his service.”

Reagle, the agency’s deputy commission of administration and finance, will serve as the new commissioner effective Oct. 17.

“Christina has demonstrated that she understands the constant collaboration needed for success and has a deep understanding of the staff development, investment in technology and program development and planning that is needed for the success at IDOC,” Holcomb said in a statement. “I look forward to her leadership.”

Reagle previously worked a controller and chief financial officer for the agency. She is a mentor for IDOC’s Leadership Academy and its Women in Leadership training program.

“I am committed to the responsible management of IDOC that results in a safe environment where employees are valued and incarcerated individuals are given the best opportunity to return to their communities as productive citizens,” Reagle said in a statement. “I look forward to leading a committed team.”

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